2024 Weather Year in Review

7 things to know about another wild weather year

Another year is just about in the books, and it has been another memorable year for weather.

The year has left an indelible mark in terms of severe weather across the United States. From catastrophic hurricanes to widespread wildfires and record-breaking heatwaves, this year underscored the growing intensity and frequency of extreme weather events.

Here's a look back at some of the most significant occurrences and their implications.

1.  By the Numbers: Billions in Losses

Last year we saw 28 events (ranked 1^st), $95.1 billion in damages (ranked 10^th), and 492 deaths (ranked 8^h).

We are at 24 confirmed weather/climate disaster events with losses exceeding $1 billion each to affect the United States. These events included 17 severe storm events, four tropical cyclone events, one wildfire event, and two winter storm events. Overall, these events resulted in the deaths of 418 people and had significant economic effects on the areas impacted. Most of this year's impacts were in the central states and they came from other tornadoes or other severe storms such as wind/hailstorms.

2. The Atlantic Hurricane Season: A Historic Year

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season was one for the record books. Notable storms included Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 hurricane that devastated parts of Florida and the East Coast, causing billions of dollars in damages and displacing thousands. The storm’s rapid intensification shocked meteorologists, highlighting the growing role of warmer ocean waters in fueling stronger storms. Milton is the second most intense Atlantic hurricane ever recorded over the Gulf of Mexico, behind only Hurricane Rita in 2005.

We saw multiple category 5 storms, with Beryl also reaching category 5 in July before making landfall. Other notable hurricanes include Helene, which was the deadliest and most destructive hurricane this season. Alongside Milton were Hurricanes Leslie and Kirk, marking the first time that three hurricanes were simultaneously active in the Atlantic basin after September.

3. Record-breaking Heatwaves

This year, also saw heatwaves that shattered records across the nation. Phoenix, Arizona, endured 45 consecutive days of temperatures exceeding 110 degrees, making the longest such streak in U.S. history. Meanwhile, cities in the Midwest, like Chicago and St. Louis, faced heat indices exceeding 120 degrees, challenging infrastructure and leading to widespread power outages.

The toll on health was significant, with heat-related illnesses and deaths reaching alarming numbers. These extreme heat events underscored the urgent need for adaptive strategies, such as increased urban greenery, cooling centers, and investments in renewable energy to reduce grid strain.

4. Wildfires Ravage the West

The western United States continued to deal with an extended wildfire season, exacerbated by prolonged drought and high temperatures. In California, the Sierra Blaze burned over 500,000 acres, destroying entire communities and prompting mass evacuations. Oregon and Washington also faced significant wildfires, with smoke spreading across the country and affecting air quality as far away as the East Coast.

We also saw our fair share of wildfire activity on the East Coast as well in areas that are not accustomed to wildfires. Since October, there have been over 860 wildfires just across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, with many more occurring in Pennsylvania as well.

The economic and ecological impacts of these fires were immense, further emphasizing the importance of forest management, fire-resistant infrastructure, and climate change mitigation.

5. Severe Weather in Pennsylvania

In July, a rare derecho swept through central Pennsylvania, bringing hurricane-force winds that downed trees and power lines, leaving thousands without electricity for days. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh experienced record rainfall events, overwhelming drainage systems and causing flash flooding in urban areas. We also saw record rainfall and flooding in areas of northcentral Pennsylvania which caused the PA-HART (Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team) to be deployed for possible water rescues.

The state also saw an increase in severe thunderstorms, with damaging hailstorms reported in Lancaster and York counties. These storms left a trail of destruction, from shattered windows to significant crop damage, further straining local economies. Also, severe storms impacted many residents and even health care facilities including long-term care facilities in the Southeast following a severe windstorm.

Lastly, despite a mild winter at the beginning of 2024, the season is starting quickly for areas of northwestern Pennsylvania have already seen several feet of snowfall across an area with multiple lake-effect snow systems.

6. Tornadoes and Severe Storms

The Tornado Alley states lived up to their name as they saw a particularly active spring, with over 1,200 confirmed tornadoes—well above the annual average. One of the most devastating was the Mayfield Tornado, an EF5 twister that carved a 75-mile path of destruction through Kentucky and Tennessee. The storm obliterated homes, schools, and businesses, leaving communities in desperate need of recovery assistance.

Severe thunderstorms also brought widespread hail and wind damage as noted in the billion-dollar disaster report, particularly in Texas and the Great Plains, adding to the year's staggering weather-related damages.

7. The Role of Climate Change

While individual weather events are influenced by many factors, the overarching trend is clear: climate change is amplifying the frequency and intensity of severe weather. Rising global temperatures, melting ice caps, and shifting atmospheric patterns all contribute to the volatility we are experiencing.

Looking Ahead

The lessons from 2024 highlight the urgent need for comprehensive climate policies and adaptive strategies. Investment in resilient infrastructure, early warning systems, and sustainable practices will be crucial as we face a future of heightened weather extremes.

As we reflect on the challenges of this year, it is also an opportunity to prepare for what lies ahead. The resilience of communities, combined with innovation and collaboration, will be key in navigating the increasingly unpredictable climate landscape.

Stay informed and stay safe as we move into 2025, ready to tackle the challenges of our changing world together.

Author: Cj Sabo, MPH, EMT-B, manager, emergency management

 

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